Contract: $1,000,000 last season, retired at end of the season.
Report Card Grade in 2012: 4 out of 10
Introduction: Jochen Hecht was added to this year’s side almost as an afterthought. A free agent after the end of last season, this Lindy Ruff favorite proved that he had recovered enough from the previous season’s concussion woes to come back and play for the Sabres again.
This shortened season’s version of Hecht proved to be much more durable, and more suited for the fourth line anchor role that he played. Rarely spectacular since the glory days of 2006-07, he chipped in with a few goals and assists here and there, but for the most part played the grinder’s part alongside John Scott and Patrick Kaleta.
Key Stat: Despite the reputation for being a defensive forward and playing only 13:41 per game, Hecht showed his worth on both sides of the ice this season – the team’s shooting percentage when he was on ice was only better when Thomas Vanek, Brian Flynn and Cody Hodgson were on, and the Sabres goalies’ save percentages just marginally higher when Steve Ott and Patrick Kaleta were on the ice.
As always, Hecht does a lot of the little things well, but hasn’t particularly excelled at anything either. The Sabres should have no problem finding someone who does well at being average for cheaper while playing a more physical game.
Thumbs Up: Apart from John Scott who barely had any minutes, Hecht had the highest numbers for goals against and team +/- when he was off the ice.
Thumbs Down: As if it were possible, Hecht’s faceoff numbers dipped even further from last year, down to a miserable 41.6%.
Voting: Using the good old grade school system of A, B, C, D, F, with A representing a great season, C an average season, and F a very poor season, grade Jochen Hecht on his performance this year according to the expectations you had for him.
What grade would you give Jochen Hecht for his 2012-13 season?
| A | 13 |
| B | 71 |
| C | 122 |
| D | 52 |
| F | 40 |